5 Tips to Overcome Hurdles in Your Florida Divorce Mediation
Divorce is often portrayed in movies and TV series as a fiercely contested legal battle where soon-to-be-former spouses are crying, yelling, and screaming (in many cases, all at once). However, divorce does not have to be that messy.
While getting divorced is never easy, the reality is far different from what people are used to seeing in movies and TV shows. Not every divorce has to be an exhausting experience that leaves you emotionally and mentally drained.
In fact, you may not even have to go to court to get divorced. That, of course, if you have an Orlando mediation attorney who can help you reach the best possible resolution through mediation.
5 Tips to Overcome Hurdles in Your Mediation
Under Florida law, mediation is a form of alternative dispute resolution that is often used in divorces to resolve many family law-related issues. However, even when spouses opt for mediation, it is not uncommon for them to encounter various difficulties that prevent them from finding the middle ground.
Let’s review the five tips for overcoming hurdles in divorce mediation.
- Take a Step Back
Even if you opt for mediation and decide to get a divorce on good terms, that does not necessarily mean that you are guaranteed to avoid all arguments, contentions, and conflicts.
It is perfectly normal to have your own opinion. It is normal to disagree and get emotional. However, getting too emotional could prevent you from reaching a consensus. That is why it is advised to take a 30-minute break when things get heated to maintain a cool head. For example, go get some fresh air.
- Set the Disputed Issue Aside
If you are making progress, but there is one or several issues in which you have conflicting views (e.g., child custody or alimony), it is best to move on to something else instead of driving your negotiations into a corner. Rather, set all disputed issues aside and leave them for later.
- Do Not Play the Blame Game
Blaming your spouse for destroying your marriage and recounting the past is never a good idea in divorce mediation. Try to be more future-focused. Sure, the past may sting, but playing the blame game will lead to zero progress.
- Do Not Be Afraid to Compromise
One of the key points of divorce mediation is the ability to compromise. While it does not necessarily mean that you should ignore your opinion and agree to an unfavorable settlement just to finalize your divorce, working together to find a solution is still a better option than the traditional divorce where the judge gets to decide for you (which can lead to some very unpredictable and unpleasant outcomes).
- Listen to One Another
Failure to listen to each other is a common cause of hurdles in divorce mediation. While learning to listen to your soon-to-be-former spouse is important, it is equally vital to clarify the terms of the dispute.
What if You Cannot Agree on All Issues in Divorce Mediation?
It is perfectly normal if you and your spouse have conflicting opinions about certain issues such as property division or child support while agreeing on other aspects of your divorce.
A partial agreement can be drafted on all settled aspects, and you can either take more time to negotiate the unsettled issues or use the help of an Orlando mediation attorney to litigate these issues.
Contact our Orlando mediation lawyers from Donna Hung Law Group to facilitate the best possible resolution in your mediation. Call at 407-999-0099 for a consultation.